PM 4 at DS Smith's Viana paper mill in Portugal has reached final acceptance following its rebuild and start-up in October 2023.
The rebuild has increased production capacity from 400,000 tpy to 430,000 tpy of kraftliner and high-performance top kraftliner at a design speed of 1,200 m/min.
The rebuild included modifications to the wire section, a completely new press section and upgrades to the web transfer between the press and dryer sections, according to technology company Voith. Stock preparation upgrades were also part of the rebuild.
The rebuild reduced steam consumption by 15 per cent despite the increase in production capacity. Paper breaks in the wire section were reduced by 90 per cent.
"We are very pleased with the results. The promised post-press dry contents were achieved for all grades, helping us to meet our 'Now & Next' decarbonisation targets by reducing energy consumption and producing kraftliner more sustainably and efficiently," said Eduardo Fernandes, Project Manager at DS Smith.
DS Smith is currently also replacing the old recovery boiler at the Viana site, which had reached the end of its life cycle. The upgrade is scheduled to be finalised in May 2025.
